Mobile Operators Agree on Interoperability

The mobile operators in Kenya have agreed on mobile money interoperability system that will allow mobile phone subscribes transfer money across networks.

Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication and Technology, Joe Mucheru said Airtel Kenya mobile telcom company will be the first to carry out trials with Telkom Kenya beginning Monday and Safaricom, and others will follow days later.
Mr. Mucheru said he expects full roll out of the system by March this years to enable subscribers send or receive money across networks. The consensus comes following months of discussions among the operators aimed at leveling the market to encourage fair completion.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Telposta Towers today, Mr. Mucheru said the interoperability initiative would increase financial inclusion and innovation among subscribers and the operators respectively. The Cabinet Secretary added that the step would also create fair competition among the mobile operators that bring down cost of services.
Mr. Mucheru said the deal between the Telcos on interoperability would resolve the long-standing debate of dominance of market by one player. He added that discussions on sharing of towers were also on course as part of efforts to create a level playing field among the Telcos.

National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich said the government has been pushing for easy money transfers and access to promote financial inclusion.

Mr. Rotich said the Central Bank of Kenya was working to ensure security on interoperability is safe-guarded to promote trust and efficiency.
M-Pesa, is a mobile money transfer service in Kenya that allows mobile subscribers crucial services such as sending and receiving money across the globe, accessing loans and paying for utilities.
By Cheruiyot Korir – January, 19th 2018